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WVPCA Weekly Outlook
A Newsletter on Community Centered Healthcare
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Emergency Management News - WVPCA News - PCMH Corner
O/E - State News - National News - Funding Opportunities
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US election security groups call 2020 election 'most secure in American history'
Read the entire article from CNET here.
Pfizer: COVID-19 vaccine 95% effective, seeking clearance soon
Read the entire article from WVNews here.
West Virginia's COVID-19 numbers continue to skyrocket in wrong direction
Read the entire article from WVNews here.
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CDC Adds COVID-19 Vaccine-Specific Content for Providers and Public
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has added vaccine-specific content to their extensive Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): Vaccines gateway page. These new resources include information on vaccination planning, how vaccine safety will be monitored, and FAQs. These resources are intended to clarify how COVID-19 vaccine recommendations will be made and how the vaccines will be monitored for safety, to build trust and confidence in future COVID-19 vaccines. As more information becomes available and as vaccines become authorized or approved and recommended for use in the U.S. updates will be added.
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COVID-19 Immunity May Last Years, New Study Suggests |
COVID-19 immunity may last years, according to a study published Nov. 16 on the preprint server bioRxiv.
Researchers recruited 185 adults who had recovered from COVID-19, most of whom had mild symptoms and did not require hospitalization. The majority of participants provided just one blood sample, but 38 provided multiple samples over several months.
The study assessed immune system antibodies, B cells that make more antibodies as needed, and two types of T cells that kill infected cells. The research shows that antibodies were durable, with modest declines six to eight months after infection, although there was a vast difference in the levels among participants. T cells showed only a slight decay, while the number of B cells surprisingly rose.
"That amount of memory would likely prevent the vast majority of people from getting hospitalized disease, severe disease, for many years," Shane Crotty, PhD, a virologist at La Jolla (Calif.) Institute of Immunology and co-leader of the study, told The New York Times.
The research has not been peer-reviewed, but is the longest and most comprehensive study of immunity to the coronavirus thus far, reports the NYT.
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CDC Pandemic Vaccine Program Distribution Tracking and Monitoring Infographic |
This infographic provides health centers with an overview of how the CDC will scale up existing vaccine distribution, tracking monitoring, and systems during a pandemic.
Vaccine coverage will be monitored by jurisdiction-based IIS and national surveys. National, regional, and local level data will inform decision making priorities and outreach.
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In observance of Thanksgiving, the WVPCA offices will be closed November 26th and 27th. We hope you are able to take some time to celebrate the holiday
with friends and family while staying safe and well.
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Modifications to PCMH Annual Reporting Requirements |
NCQA updates Recognition publications periodically to clarify guidance, revise resources and refine criteria expectations. Updates are now available for the PCMH Annual Reporting publication.
Recognition Programs publications are available for download by going to the My Downloads section of My NCQA. Log in using your email address and password. Refer to the information below to access the publication download.
Program - PCMH Annual Reporting (2021)
The modifications made to PCMH Annual Reporting 2021 clarify expectations to reduce the number of returned submissions. The goal of these modifications is to expedite both your submission and NCQA’s review process.
Changes include:
- Expanded the list of multiple-choice options and removing “other” as a multiple-choice option.
- Changed the AR-KM 2 “Denominator Definition” from a text answer to yes/no.
- Practices no longer need to enter the “Patients at the Practice—Definition” for AR-CM 1.
Modifications
Removed “other” as an option from the following multiple-choice questions:
- AR-TC 1
- AR-KM 1*
- AR-KM 2*
- AR-AC 1
- AR-AC 2
- AR-AC 3
- AR-CM 2
- AR-QI 4
*Additional answer choices added to provide a greater selection of options for practices
In addition, NCQA has added two new Annual Reporting 2021 resources, the Annual Reporting Preparation Guide for 2021 and a measure reporting tip sheet which is a new tab in the Quality Improvement Worksheet.
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Outreach and Enrollment Learning Collaborative Deadline |
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The National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) is launching an Outreach and Enrollment (O&E) Learning Collaborative. NACHC’s O&E Learning Collaborative will convene up to 15 health center outreach and enrollment managers, assisters, and staff who assist patients and consumers with enrolling into affordable health insurance coverage and social services programs. Participants will engage in monthly workshops and supplemental project-based, peer-to-peer learning over a seven month time frame (December 2020 through June 2021). This is a free educational offering for health center staff. Interested participants must submit an application. The application deadline is COB, Nov. 27, 2020.
If you have questions regarding this Learning Collaborative, please contact Ted Henson, Director, Health Center Growth & Development.
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Health Care Repeal Lawsuit Update |
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The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the Health Care Repeal Lawsuit this week. Watch this Health Policy Minute, as they breaking down what happened and what health care advocates can expect next.
Michael Miller, director of strategic policy at Community Catalyst, gives an update on the Health Care Repeal Lawsuit brought by the Trump administration and 17 Republican attorneys general to overturn the entire Affordable Care Act. On Tuesday, Nov. 10, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case. While initial reporting seems to suggest a majority of Justices were skeptical of plaintiffs’ argument for striking the entire law, we likely won’t have a decision until the spring. For a refresher on what’s at stake in this case, watch a previous Health Policy Minute episode here. |
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West Virginia Ranked Fattest State in America |
A recent study by WalletHub shows West Virginia is considered the fattest state in America.
The study lists Kentucky as fourth, and Ohio at 14.
Other findings from the study reveal Kentucky and West Virginia in the top 5 for the highest percent of obese children, highest percent of adults with high cholesterol, and highest percent of adults with high blood pressure.
West Virginia also ranks in the top 5 for highest percent of obese adults, however the lowest percent for overweight adults.
Researchers say in order to come up with their results, they compared the 50 states and District of Columbia among obesity and overweight prevalence, health consequences, and food and fitness.
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Join HRSA’s Virtual World AIDS Day 2020 Commemoration Event on December 1 |
Mark your calendar for “HRSA’s World AIDS Day 2020 Virtual Commemorative Event” on December 1 from 11:00 a.m. - Noon ET. World AIDS Day provides HRSA the opportunity to bring attention to the HIV epidemic; encourage HIV testing, care, treatment and prevention; show support to those living with HIV and remember those who have died from HIV/AIDS.
The 2020 theme is “Ending the HIV Epidemic: Resilience and Impact.”
The event will highlight HRSA’s role in the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative, recognize the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program’s (RWHAP) 30th anniversary, and celebrate personal stories from people with HIV showing resilience and the impact of the program on their lives. This virtual event is open to all HRSA recipients, national, state, local stakeholders and federal employees.
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It's not too late to submit your application! |
Applicants may qualify for up to $120,000 in loan repayment for their medical, nursing and dental school student loans. Eligible health professional students in their final year of school receive the award in exchange for a three-year service commitment in a high-need rural, tribal, or urban community. Read the 2021 Application and Program Guidance carefully before you start your application.
- Students must be U.S. citizens or nationals and enrolled or accepted in an eligible medical (MD or DO), dental (DDS or DMD), NP or CNM degree program at a U.S. accredited school.
- Installments are paid to students annually in a tax-free lump sum.
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NHSC S2S LRP award recipients are eligible to continue service through the NHSC Loan Repayment Program.
Need Additional Help?
For other issues, contact the Customer Care Center at 1-800-221-9393, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET (excluding federal holidays).
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Upcoming Training Opportunities |
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World AIDS Day 2020: Trauma in the Time
of HIV and COVID-19
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Join the MidAtlantic AETC on Tuesday, December 1 and Wednesday, December 2, 2020 to celebrate World AIDS Day! This event will be hosted virtually and include didactic presentations, interactive networking sessions, and time for questions and discussion with expert speakers. The conference will bring together HIV and Trauma-Informed Care experts to help health professionals develop skills to improve clinical outcomes and service delivery in a diverse population.
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
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Today with Macrae: Health Center Program Updates |
Mark your calendar to join Jim for updates on COVID-19, funding and other topics.
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
2:00 - 3:00 PM EST
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Adolescent Addiction (OUD) in Appalachia (ORN/WV BBH Workshop Series)
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This workshop will discuss treatment and engagement with youth and young adults with opioid use disorder (OUD).
OBJECTIVES:
- Present the changing drugs of the worldwide opioid pandemic
- Present information about risk factors associated with Opioid Use Disorder(OUD)
- Discuss various screening tools for OUD
- Rights of minors in WVA for OUD treatment
- Treatment options for OUD and related costs: Buprenorphine/naloxone & Buprenorphine; Naltrexone; Methadone; Counselling; 12 Step
- Importance going to school or work in recovery and treatment choices
- Treatment of OUD in pregnancy a growing problem
- Diseases associated with OUD and prevention
- Present cases to apply and reinforce optimal care
PRESENTER:
Harry Haus, MD. Dr. Haus received his medical degree from Albany Medical College and his JD from Duquesne Law School. In 2007, he established a four-physician group practice in Addiction Medicine and Occupation Medicine in Erie Pennsylvania. He also teaches the SAMHSA waiver class for primary care and the SAMHSA waiver class for OB-GYN.
December 2, 2020
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM ET
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Improving Social Determinants of Health - Getting Further Faster |
The National Association of City and County Health Officials (NACCHO) has partnered with the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) to offer Improving Social Determinants of Health – Getting Further Faster. The aim is not to fund new innovation, but rather identify existing projects that could benefit from a thorough evaluation – leading to a rural-specific evidence base. Applications are due Tuesday December 8, 2020 at 5:00pm ET. For questions about this opportunity, email chronicdisease@astho.org.
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FCC Connected Care Pilot Program – Applications now being accepted |
The Connected Care Pilot Program will provide up to $100 million from the Universal Service Fund (USF) over a three-year period to selected applicants to support the provision of connected care services. The Pilot Program will provide funding for selected pilot projects to cover 85% of the eligible costs of broadband connectivity, network equipment, and information services necessary to provide connected care services to the intended patient population. The Pilot Program will not fund end-user devices or medical equipment.
- New FCC Program to provide financial support to certain types of health care providers – including FQHCs – to provide “connected care” services.
- Target populations are low-income and/or veteran patients, with issues such as diabetes management, opioid dependency, high-risk pregnancies, and mental health conditions.
- All FQHCs are eligible, regardless of whether they are urban or rural.
- Funding will cover 85% of eligible costs, including broadband connectivity, network equipment, and information services necessary to provide connected care services to the intended patient population.
Applying to the FCC Connected Care Pilot Program
- PCAs and HCCNs can apply on behalf of multiple FQHCs.
- Groups who received funding under the FCC’s COVID telehealth program can apply for this pilot program.
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Applications are due Monday, December 7, 2020, at 11:59pm est.
- $100 million in funding available.
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Community Health Center Resources |
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Jackson Kelly attorneys provide limited consultation to all members of the WVPCA at no charge, as part of the WVPCA contract. There is no limit to the number of calls which any member may make. All inquiries within the scope of professional competence of firm attorneys will be addressed. Inquiries which require expertise not available through the firm will be promptly identified and, when requested, Jackson Kelly will assist in referring the matter to accounting firms, insurance agents, or others as circumstances warrant.
All inquiries, responses and consultation services provided by the firm lawyers will be provided without additional charge beyond the retainer amount, except for matters which require formal opinions, representation of record in litigation, transactional work, e.g. the purchase or sale of real property, or matters which require continued representation, research or consultation beyond a single inquiry or document review.
Justin M. Harrison is a labor & employment lawyer with Jackson Kelly PLLC. He is available for consultation through a special retainer relationship with the WVPCA. Justin can be reached at 304.340.1358 and via email at justin.harrison@jacksonkelly.com.
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Jackson Kelly attorneys provide limited consultation to all members of the WVPCA at no charge, as part of the WVPCA contract. There is no limit to the number of calls which any member may make. All inquiries within the scope of professional competence of firm attorneys will be addressed. Inquiries which require expertise not available through the firm will be promptly identified and, when requested, Jackson Kelly will assist in referring the matter to accounting firms, insurance agents, or others as circumstances warrant.
All inquiries, responses and consultation services provided by the firm lawyers will be provided without additional charge beyond the retainer amount, except for matters which require formal opinions, representation of record in litigation, transactional work, e.g. the purchase or sale of real property, or matters which require continued representation, research or consultation beyond a single inquiry or document review.
Justin M. Harrison is a labor & employment lawyer with Jackson Kelly PLLC. He is available for consultation through a special retainer relationship with the WVPCA. Justin can be reached at 304.340.1358 and via email at justin.harrison@jacksonkelly.com.
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Risk Management Manual for Health Centers Now Available! |
The Risk Management Manual for Health Centers is now available on the ECRI Institute Clinical Risk Management Program website! Designed to support a proactive approach to risk management at health centers and free clinics, the Manual provides background, tips, and how-tos in a manageable format.
Specific areas that are covered include:
Risk Management Programs & Plans
Claims and Lawsuits
Role of the Risk Manager
Patient Grievances and Complaints
Communication with Patients
Credentialing and Privileging
Communication among Providers, Staff, and Community Partners
Tracking Systems for Diagnostic Tests, Referrals, and Hospitalizations
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COVID-19 Resources for Health Centers |
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Federally qualified health centers and free clinics are on the front line in testing and treating patients who may have been exposed to COVID-19. Use these resources to keep your staff and patients safe:
In addition, ECRI's COVID-19 Resource Center includes free resources addressing the provision of clinical care and managing the supply chain. Updated several times per week, highlights include:
Additional guidance is available directly from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), including:
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Debra Boyd | Chief Financial/Chief Operations Officer
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To sign up to receive the WVPCA Weekly Newsletter: |
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1700 MacCorkle Avenue, SE
Charleston, WV 25314
Phone: 304.346.0032
Toll Free: 1.877.WVA HLTH
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This project is/was supported partially/fully by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number U58CS06834 State and Regional Primary Care Associations. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government. |
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